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Harrison’s trash collection delayed one day for Thanksgiving

In observance of Thanksgiving Day, the employees of Harrison Industries are taking the day off on Thursday, Nov. 26. As a result, customers who normally have their trash and recyclables or green waste collected on Thursday or Friday will have it collected one day later than usual.

The Thanksgiving holiday will not affect customers who have their trash and recyclables or green waste collected on Monday, Tuesday or Wednesday. It also will not affect Ojai customers who have their trash collected on Monday.

The regular schedule for all customers will resume the following week.

For more information, call 647-1414.

How to pick the right printer

Tech Today with Ken May

Hopefully November is treating you all well! One item that folks often purchase during Black Friday is a new printer. Printers are often deeply discounted as a loss leader to get people in the store, but it may not be worth it, even at a heavy discount. Finding the right printer for your needs is critical, or you’ll just be wasting money, and not getting the service you need from it.

The first step is to understand what you will primarily be using it for. Are you a photographer? A teacher? A mechanical engineer? Different technologies come into play for each of these use cases. If you want something inexpensive, prints ok color, but only handles small amounts of printing, then an Inkjet printer is probably a good choice. If you want something portable, yes portable!! Then we have recently discovered portable printers (see here: https://brothermobilesolutions.com/products/mobile-printers/ruggedjet-series/) and we cannot wait to get our hands on one! For better photo picture quality, choose one with pigment based inks, such as those by Epson. If you need high volume, fast printing, definitely go with a laser printer. It might also be a good idea to consider copier lease professionals if you don’t want to own a professional printer but want to be able to use one regularly.

Costs for the printers themselves have come down quite a bit, but ink and toner is still very expensive. If color isn’t necessary, you may be best suited by an inexpensive black and white printer that uses toner. Toner doesn’t dry out so if you are printing infrequently, you aren’t wasting ink.

Make sure that your printer has all the necessary features you need. Many of the cheaper printers now have great business class features built in for no extra cost. Decide if you need to fax, copy, print double sided, have an automatic document feeder, and all the other features you need. If there is a printer that you are after, but is not compatiable with your computer when you firs connect it, you can always look into solutions like hp scan software so you can search for any updates for your printer, alongside looking at all the important details. Connectivity options are also critical these days. Networked printers make life a lot easier, however, we continue to see issues with Wi-Fi printers. Some brands are better than others, but even after all this time, they can be flaky. So, we recommend using a wired Ethernet connection for the best results. This may require additional cabling to be run, depending on where you will be placing it, so keep that in mind.

Make sure that the printer is small enough to get the job done without being so large that you can’t move it easily around, if needed. Many times, the printers need to be moved or repositioned due to your office needs. This is why you may want to consider small desktop printers for each office versus one huge copy machine. Large copy machines make sense in a larger business environment, but not in a home. They also typically come with expensive service plans from the vendors, which greatly adds to their cost.

Lastly, if you’re just getting to know printer technology, start simple. Better to purchase a fancier, more advanced model later, rather than buying a top of the line model that doesn’t fit what your needs are.

Graduation of Leadership Ventura 2015

By Carol Leish

On November 18, at the Ventura city Hall, the graduation of the 2015 Ventura Leadership, through the Ventura Commerce & Education Foundation of the Ventura Chamber of Commerce, took place.

“Participants have gained responsibility in order to lead by example; to pass it on to others; and, to develop relationships,” according to Stephanie Calwell, CEO of the Ventura Chamber of Commerce. “Thanks to, Lola Herrera, for recruiting participants. She put her heart and soul into Leadership Ventura. Leadership will be a stepping stone for all of you.”

Thanks go to The Greek Mediterranean Steak and Seafood, at the Ventura Harbor, and to owners, Lynn and Mikelton, for hosting the event.

Mary Jarvis provided personal reflections of the Leadership Ventura program. She emphasized that, “The graduating leaders have been/will continue to be dedicated and passionate in their endeavors.”

During Leadership Ventura’s year of acquiring knowledge, Relly Nadir, showed participants the importance of being able to understand Emotional Intelligence in being able to learn about themselves, and to learn more about their relationships with others. He emphasized the importance of being, ‘smart,’ by showing others that, “We are all smart by gaining self-awareness; mastering the moment in order to become empowered; analyzing situations; recharging; and, teamwork.” Through giving the Myers Brigg test, Naidr enabled participants to learn more about their emotional intelligence by gaining depth about themselves and others.

Leadership Ventura took participants on various themed days once a month for a year. These included: government day; arts and culture day; media day; regional and commerce day; a health and human serves of Ventura County day; military and harbor day; education day; and, a government day.

Amber Stevens introduced the Leadership Class of 2015 and their team projects.

Team 1: City Transitional Living, director Jim Duran, for individuals needing a temporary living place and guidance due to personal circumstances, had, Deborah Lofthouse, Terry McBreen and Rick Jeffrey. The team did a family mural project with children at the site on a wall next to the playground.

Team 2: Tender Life Maternity Home had Jann Huling, Phil Chandler, and Fermin Cortez. “ASAP Painting helped us to repaint walls within the home,” according to Chandler. “We realized the importance of this place by providing a safe haven for pregnant women.” Tender Life Maternity Home, with director Karen Johnson, just celebrated their 30 year anniversary on September 30.

Congratulations to all Leadership Ventura 2015 participants for continuing to make a difference within the community. As the future continues to be in all of the team members hands, the 2015 graduating class, who all got impressive plaques, will be mentors for the 2016 Leadership Ventura group. To become involved in the upcoming class, please contact the Ventura Chamber of Commerce at 643-7222; or through their website at, www.venturachamber.com. Remember that the future is totally within our hands. We can all make a positive difference.

Vol. 9, No. 4 – November 25 – December 8, 2015 – Ventura Music Scene

The holidays are officially here
By Pam Baumgardner
VenturaRocks.com

Everclear’s 20^th anniversary tour featuring their release, “Sparkle and Fade” was well received Sunday, November 22 at the Ventura Theater; but with that being said, the crowd was extremely happy to hear other tunes as well from the band including the final songs of the night, ”Father of Mine” and “Santa Monica.”

Well, it’s time to confront the fact that the holidays are officially here. Bombay’s will be inspiring people to get out the night before Thanksgiving by providing two stages of music: up front it’s Tommy Marsh and the Session with a four hour blues jam being billed as biggest night in their four year history, and in the back room it’s Shaky Feelin’ and Nine Mile Skid.

As for the night after you’ve spent time with the family, you can work out the pent up frustrations at Sans Souci where you can find one hell of a punk show with F.S.K.D, Filios, We are the Underclass and Malice Thoughts. But on the off chance you’re looking for something a little tamer (and perhaps you enjoyed the time with family) you might want to check out the Jim Hendrix Birthday tribute at Squashed Grapes.

If you’re looking to get into the Christmas spirit, then there’s nothing like a Toy Drive for underprivileged kids coupled with an evening of great Blues to do the trick. The 15^th annual 4 Kids 2 Kids Toy Drive will be held Sunday, December 6 at the Ventura Beach Club. $15 and an unwrapped toy gets you Deb Ryder, Kelly Zirbes, Donna Greene, Shari Puorto, and tons of other artists including honorary guest Nick St. Nicolas (Steppenwolf).

There are two workshops worth mentioning for local musicians as they are most likely to sell out and both are being held at the Pierpont Inn in January. The first is “Down to the Crossroads” five-day Blues guitar and bass retreat January 19-23 (www.Down2TheCrossroads.com) and then it’s Jon Gindick’s Blues Harmonica Jam Camp which runs January 26 – 30 (www.BluesHarmonicaJamCamp.com). You can step up your game and move up to the next level with intensive instruction in an inspiring environment!

Don’t forget, it’s a once-in-a-lifetime chance to catch Kinky Friedman and his unique brand of storytelling in an intimate setting at the Livery (Ventura Improv Theater) on December 4. He’ll be sharing songs from his latest CD, “The Loneliest Man I Ever Met.” Ticket information at www.OnesToWatchProductions.com.

And finally, one of my favorite events of the year, the Winter Wine Walk will once again shut down Main Street Downtown Ventura for what is touted as the World’s Largest Wine Walk. Musical entertainment by The Road Brothers, SayReal, Paradium and the Bomb. Ticket information can be found at www.VenturaWinterWineWalk.com

Do you have any music related news or upcoming shows you want help publicizing? Send all information short or long to [email protected], and for updated music listings daily, go to www.VenturaRocks.com.

Vol. 9, No. 4 – November 25 – December 8, 2015 – Police Reports

Child Sexual Abuse Arrest

On Monday, October 26th, at 4:30 p.m., the VPD received a report of lewd conduct with a child. A juvenile victim reported to a patrol officer that Mathew Boyd, 41 years old, had touched her in a sexual manner.

Detectives began a follow up investigation and spoke to several additional victims. One of the victims interviewed is now an adult, and told investigators the crime occurred in 2006. All of the victims identified Mathew Boyd as the suspect that had touched them in an inappropriate manner

On Monday, November 11th, Mathew Boyd turned himself into detectives at the VPD. He was arrested and later booked at the VC Jail for lewd contact with a juvenile.

Robbery

On Tuesday, November 10th, at 6:15 a.m., the VPD received a call in reference to a carjacking in the parking lot of 11111 Citrus Drive. Officers contacted the victim. The victim reported he was delivering newspapers in the complex when he was approached by the suspects, two Hispanic males. One of the suspects brandished a handgun and demanded the victim’s money while the second suspect jumped into the driver’s seat of the victim’s running vehicle. After a short exchange, both suspects then sped off in the victim’s vehicle.

Officers located the vehicle a short distance away in the same complex. Officers, with the assistance of a Ventura Sherriff’s K9 unit, searched the area but were unable to locate the suspects. The suspects took the victim’s cell phone and wallet during the incident.

Resisting Arrest

On Monday, November 9th, at 6:52 p.m., an officer was patrolling the downtown area when he observed a suspicious subject loitering and possibly attempting to burglarize a business in the 200 block of East Santa Clara Street. The officer detained the subject and began checking the area to see if he was committing a crime. Moments later, a second subject, identified as Llovani Gutierrez, suddenly appeared from the same area of the business and fled on foot. The officer gave Gutierrez several commands, but he refused to stop running. The officer then deployed his police K-9.

After a brief foot pursuit, and with the assistance of the police K-9, the officer caught and detained Gutierrez at the corner of Main Street and Palm Street.

After being cleared at VCMC for injuries he sustained from the dog bite, it was discovered that Gutierrez had given false information and that his real name was Geovany Salinas. Salinas was booked into the VC Jail. The initial subject that was detained by the officer fled from the scene and was not located.

Attempted Vehicle Burglary

On Friday, November 13th, at 7:25 a.m., the VPD received a phone call from an alert citizen who reported seeing suspects attempting to break into parked vehicles, near Champlain Avenue and Neath Street. Patrol officers were sent to the area however, prior to their arrival, the suspects fled. The responding officers searched the surrounding neighborhood and located one of the suspects, Miguel Hernandez, on Northbank Drive east of Petit Avenue. Through the course of the investigation, officers were able to confirm he was one of the suspects. He was also found to be in possession of “shaved” keys, which he was using to attempt to open the vehicle doors.

At the conclusion of the investigation, Hernandez was booked into VC Jail. The second suspect was not located. It was discovered later that the vehicle Hernandez had been driving had been stolen out of Oxnard.

Assault On Oxnard Officer

On Thursday, November 19^th, at 11:40 a.m. an Oxnard Police Officer was retrieving equipment from his patrol car at the Ventura County Medical Center. As he was retrieving his equipment, the suspect, Adam Barcenas (53 years, Oxnard resident) approached the officer.

Barcenas was holding a brick and was about to throw the brick at the officer when the alert officer noticed the suspect, drew his firearm, and began to order Barcenas to drop the brick. The suspect complied with the commands of the officer and dropped the brick.

Ventura Police responded to assist and Barcenas was taken into custody without incident. Barcenas was subsequently booked into Ventura County Jail for Assault with a Deadly Weapon on a Police Officer.

Shooting

On Friday, November 20th, at 7:40 p.m. Ventura Police patrol officers responded to a call of a shooting that had just occurred between two vehicles in the 9300 block of Telephone Road. When officers arrived, they located the victim parked in a nearby parking lot. He was not injured during the shooting; however his vehicle had been damaged by a single gunshot which had traveled through the front windshield of his car. The investigation revealed the victim and the suspect had been involved in a “road rage” incident. During the incident, the suspect shot one round at the victim and then fled the area. Officers searched the area, however the suspect, Hispanic male adult driving a dark colored sedan was not located.

Vol. 9, No. 4 – November 25 – December 8, 2015 – Music Calendar

For more events go to VenturaRocks.com

Amigos Cafe & Cantina
546 E. Main St.
805-874-2232
Mondays: 6 pm Karen Eden & Bill Macpherson; 8 pm Joey’s Acoustic Blues Jam
Tuesdays: 8:30 pm The Beers Brothers open mic
Thursdays: 8 pm The Gypsy Blues Band
Wed 11/25: 8 pm The Seaside Band with Freeman James
Fri 11/27: 8 pm Medicine Hat
Sat 11/28: 8 pm Dive Bar Messiahs
Sun 11/29: 5 pm Jade Hendrix; 9 pm Karaoke
Wed 12/2: 8 pm Mark Masson
Fri 12/4: 8 pm Brando Ragan Project
Sat 12/5: 8 pm Blues Bullet
Sun 12/6: 6 pm The Tossers; 9 pm Karaoke

Bombay Bar & Grill
143 S. California St.
805-643-4404
Wed 11/25: Tommy Marsh hosts the Session; Shaky Feelin, Nine Mile Skid
Wed 12/2: Tommy Marsh hosts the Session
Fri 12/4: Velveteen Band, Alice

Café Fiore
66 S. California Street
Wed 11/25: Big Adventure
Fri 11/27: Little Alice
Sat 11/28: Soul Infusion
Tues 12/1: Bernie Meisinger
Wed 12/2: Byan & the Jazzheads
Thurs 12/3: Sound Effect
Fri 12/4: Instone
Sat 12/5: Soul Infusion

The Cave
4435 McGrath Street
Thurs & Fri: 5:30 – 8:30 Warren Takashaki

Dargans
593 E. Main Street
Sun 12/6: 4 pm The Sunday Drivers

El Rey Cantina
294 E. Main Street
Wed 11/25: DJ Larz
Fridays: 4 pm Xoco Moraza and Friends; 9:30 DJs
Saturdays: DJ Erock

The Garage
1091 Scandia Avenue
Sat 11/28: Turbonegra, Chill Child, Loose Nerves, Detained, Harry Jerkface

Gigi’s Cocktails
2493 Grand Avenue
Mondays Jam Night with Maggie’s Drawers
Thurdays & Fridays: Karaoke
Sat 11/28: Dark Phoenix

Golden China
760 S. Seaward
(805) 652-0688
Karaoke seven nights a week
Bluegrass Jam 2^nd & 4^th Wednesdays
Swing night Thursdays 6:30 pm
Friday and Saturday: 7 pm Polynesian Revue
Cumbia music Fridays with DJ Carlos at 9:30 pm

Gone West Wine Cellars
5963 Olivas Park Drive
Music 6-8 pm
Fri 12/4: Double Trouble

Grapes and Hops
454 E. Main Street
Fri 11/27: Larry “Big House” David

The Greek Restaurant
Ventura Harbor
Sat & Sun 7:30 pm
Belly Dancing, Greek music and show; DJ dancing

Keynote Lounge
10245 Telephone Road
Tuesday and Wednesday: Karaoke
Thursday: Open Mic
Sunday: Karaoke
Fri 11/27: Custom Made
Sat 11/28: Tex Pistols
Fri 12/4: Sean Wiggins
Sat 12/5: Triptastics

Majestic Ventura Theater
26 S. Chestnut Street
(805) 653-0721
Fri 11/27: Sublime with Rome
Sat 11/28: SuperDuperKyle
Tues 12/1: Jonathan Richman
Wed 12/2: Iamsu, Banga, Mo Stylez
Sat 12/5: Snoop Dog, Mack 10, The Eastsidaz

Paddy’s
2 W. Main Street
Wednesdays: Karaoke
Fri & Sat: DJs

The Patio at Player’s Casino
6580 Auto Center Drive
Fri 11/27: The Bomb
Sat 11/28: Nick Jerrems

Poinsettia Pavillion
3451 Foothill Road
(805) 648-1143
Mon 11/30: Monday Night Dance Club with Dick Parent Band
Mon 12/7: Monday Night Dance Club with Dick Parent Band

Prime
2209 E. Thompson Blvd
Tuesdays: Danny D
Fridays: Encore
Saturdays: Beach City Sound Club

Rookees Sports Bar & Grill
419 E. Main Street
(805) 648-6862
Friday and Saturdays
10 pm Rotating DJs

Saloon BBQ Co
456 E Main Street
Sat 11/28: Mark Sellers
Sun 11/29: Sheldon & Cunanne

Salzer’s Records
5777 Valentine Road
Sun 12/16: 2 pm – 50 Sticks of Dynamite

Sandbox Coffeehouse
204 E. Thompson Blvd
805-641-1025
Thursdays Open Mic
Sat 11/28: Charlotte Dickson
Sun 11/29: Doug McRae & Ange Marie
Sat 12/5: Walt Dunlop
Sun 12/6: Boscoe’s Brood

Sans Souci
21 S. Chestsnut
Sundays: DJ Darko
Mondays: Karoake
Tuesdays: Twisted Tuesday
Wednesdays: Open mic with Sin Chonies
Thursdays: DJ Spinobi
Fri 11/27: F.S.K.D., Filios, We are the Underclass, Malice Thoughts
Sat 11/28: Hubcap Stealers
Fri 12/4: The Midnight Callers, The Brothers Collective

Squashed Grapes
2351 E. Main St.
805-643-7300
Live jazz music 7-10 pm
Wed 11/25: Haakon Graf Trio
Fri 11/27: Jimi Hendrix BD Tribute
Sat 11/28: Bevan Manson Band
Tues 12/1: Jazz Jam
Wed 12/2: Adam Clark & Rachel Flowers
Thurs 12/3: Big Band
Fri 12/4: Cali 2 Cuba featuring Rachel Flowers
Sat 12/5: Mitch Forman Trio

Star Lounge
343 E. Main Street
(805) 6438-4709
Fri: 11/27: Gypsy Stew
Sat 11/28: Brandon Ragan Project
Fri 12/4: Drunken Monkey
Sat 12/5: The Bomb

The Tavern
211 E. Santa Clara Street
Sunday open mics
Karaoke Tuesdays
Metal Music Wednesdays
DJs every Thursday college night
Fri 11/27: The Caverns
Sat 11/28: The Black Hips

Ventura Beach Club
281 W. Main Street
Sat 11/28: Raging Arb & the Red Heads, Spencer the Gardener
Fri 12/4: Candye Kane
Sun 12/6: The Bandolerso, Ray Jaurique & the Uptown Brothers, Shari Puorto, Donna Green, Deb Ryder, Kelly Zirbes & Perry Robertson, Tommy Marsh…

W20 at the Watermark
598 E. Main Street
Fri & Sat 9 – Mid; Sun 3 – 6 pm
Fri 11/27: The New Vibe
Sat 11/28: A.D.D.
Sun 11/29: Shawn Jones

The Wine Rack
14 S. California Street
Music runs 8-11 pm, Sundays at 3 pm
Mondays: Mike Cregan
Tuesdays: Frank Barajas and Doug Johnson
Fri 11/27: Matt Clark
Sat 11/28: Mark Heyes & Phil Salazar
Fri 12/4: Danielle Stacy
Sat 12/5: Ventura Jazz Collective

Chanukah

Every year between the end of November and the end of December, Jewish people around the world celebrate the holiday of Chanukah, the Festival of Lights. Chanukah begins on the 25th day of the Hebrew month of Kislev, but the starting date on the western calendar varies from year to year. This year it starts on sundown on Dec.6.

In the land of Judea there was a mean (boo) Syrian king, Antiochus. The king ordered the Jewish people to reject their God, their religion, their customs and their beliefs and to worship the Greek gods. There were some who did as they were told, but many refused. One who refused was Judah Maccabee.

Judah and his four brothers formed an army and after 3 years of fighting, the Maccabees were finally successful in driving the Syrians out of Israel and reclaimed the Temple in Jerusalem.

When Judah and his followers finished cleaning the temple, they wanted to light the eternal light, known as the N’er Tamid, which is present in every Jewish house of worship.

Only a tiny jug of oil was found with only enough for a single day. The oil lamp was filled and lit. Then a miracle occurred as the tiny amount of oil stayed lit not for one day, but for 8 days

Jews celebrate Chanukah to mark the victory over the Syrians and the rededication of the Jerusalem Temple. The Festival of the Lights, Chanukah, lasts for eight days to commemorate the miracle of the oil.

The menorah candles are lit to celebrate the 8 days that the oil stayed lit.

The spellings of Chanukah has caused some confusion. Part of the reason for this confusion may be due to the fact there is no exact English translation of the Hebrew word for Chanukah. So to help clear up some of the confusion here are just a few of the different spellings one might encounter.

Chanukah, Chanukkah, Hanuka, Hanukah , Hannukah ,Hanukkah.

While in the United States it is most common to use the spelling Chanukah. Rest assured that they are all the same celebration

Vol. 9, No. 4 – November 25 – December 8, 2015 – Opinion/Editorial

• What still frustrates me is that those in favor of, and against, the Regent 55-unit hillside project appear to not understand that the specific drawings submitted have not been approved by the Planning Commission. And, they will not be approved by the City Council even if the council votes to proceed with the prescreen. Only a very broad and general concept is being approved, not a specific design. Not the lots themselves, not the homes, not the streets, just the idea of 55-homes is being approved.

Since the site development plan is conceptual and for demonstration purposes only, these specific plans will never be built. All of the opposition’s concerns will be addressed in future designs and there will be many opportunities to express one’s views.

If approved to continue, Regent will need to submit many, many, more designs to the city (and citizens) for review, comments and approvals before they can proceed with a development in that general area, including the input and approval from the Design Review Committee. There’s plenty of time for comments by the public. Personally speaking, I might have opposition to many parts of the design as it progresses through the analysis stages. I will carefully consider the merits and pitfalls of the new designs and layouts as they are presented.

From the City’s planning personnel:

“As this is only Prescreen request, City staff has not conducted a complete analysis of the grading design, including a geotechnical report prepared by the applicant. As part of a formal development application submittal, Community Development and Public Works department staff would further evaluate the amount of areas not compliant with this policy in conjunction with the Citywide Design Guidelines for construction in the Hillsides. However, in staff’s preliminary analysis, the clustering of the proposed development at the lower elevations of the hillside and preserving a majority of the site as open space is worthy of further formal review in the a Specific Plan application that could compensate for a deviation from HMP Grading and Site design Policy 3. In order to meet the broader intent of goals and policies deviations from specific adopted policies can be considered on a case by case basis. Additionally variances from adopted codes are regularly requested by project applicants and considered by the City typically where the physical characteristics of a particular property present special circumstances and/or make it difficult to comply.”

Ventura’s general economic policy is the following:

“Facilitate the provision of a range of housing types to meet the diverse needs of the community.

Provide high quality housing for current and future residents at all income levels. Promote housing that is developed under modern sustainable community standards.

Encourage the production of housing that meets the needs of all economic segments, including extremely-low, lower, moderate, and above moderate-income households, to achieve a balanced community.

Ensure adequate sites are available for housing executives in order to enhance the City’s ability to attract businesses with higher paying jobs.

Cluster development is encouraged as a means of preserving the natural appearance of the hillside, and maximizing the amount of usable open space.

Units should be sited on lots in such a way that the living areas take advantage of the views afforded by the lot. “

As a reminder, the Nov. 30 City Council meeting will start at 5pm – not the usual 6pm start time – so that the meeting might end before midnight.

Because the specific drawings are not being approved, my recommendation for any would-be speakers is to not get overly specific, but rather, speak in more general terms.

Input Examples:

I’m opposed to any new development in our hills – state why.

I’m opposed because we don’t need luxury homes – state why we don’t.

I support this project because we need luxury homes- state why.

The huge acreage that will be donated to the Hillside Conservancy is important to the city – state why.

• Council members Mike Tracy and Christy Weir have been recused from the meeting (they will probably watch from home) because of where they currently live, even though Weir lives outside of the 500 foot required “conflict of interest” zone.

• Changing topics, I received the letter below from a reader. It appeared that because of the juxtaposition of some text in a recent Breeze article, that we were being very critical of pit-bulls. The article was certainly not meant to be at all critical of the breed. Apologies for the misunderstanding!

Dear Sheldon

I’m not happy at all about the reference to Pit Bulls on the front page of yesterday’s Ventura Breeze.

Ventura Breeze is the local “Hometown” paper for Ventura. Yesterday’s edition (Vol 9, No 2) right on the front page, makes a statement that reflects very negatively toward Pit Bulls, across the board, and lumps them in the same category as cockroaches and rats!

I find this unacceptable and insensitive, especially on the front page of a newspaper whose editor usually shows a caring attitude toward dogs.

I would appreciate if you would alleviate some of the damage by issuing a statement in support of this breed which is so misaligned with erroneous information and misconceptions of a sweet and wonderful dog.

Thank you,
Jasmine Casey

Pit bulls make wonderful pets and companions.

Vol. 9, No. 4 – November 25 – December 8, 2015 – Events

Events by Ana Baker

Would you like to meet new friends? Whatever the reason, Ventura’s Conversation Group is the right place for you. This eclectic group meets Wednesdays from 4p.m. to 5:45p.m. Located at the Yolanda’s Mexican Restaurant at 2753 Main St. Several people usually stay for a drink and a bite to eat afterward. Be sure to bring an interesting topic to discuss.

Free admission stage show, 2p.m. to 4p.m. First Sunday of every month. Old Time Country Bluegrass Gospel Music Assoc. Poinsettia Pavilion, 3451 Foothill Rd. For more Information call 517-1131.

Ventura Poinsettia Dance Club meets every Monday from 7:30 p.m. to 9:45p.m. Located at the Poinsettia Pavilion, 3451 Foothill. Ballroom, swing, Latin, mixers and line dancing. Members $9, non-members $11. Call 407-9971 for more information.

DBSA Ventura, the local chapter of the Depression & Bipolar Support Alliance (DBSA) hosts two regular, confidential, peer-led, self-help support groups in the County. The evening meeting takes place every Tuesday from 6:30p.m. to 8p.m. at Bible Fellowship Church located at 6950 Ralston Street in Room 301 of Building 300. Email [email protected], visit facebook.com/DBSA.Ventura or call 253-3289 for more information.

The daytime meeting is held from 1p.m. to 3p.m. at the New Visions Center in Ventura on the first and third Saturdays of the month. Turning Point Foundation’s New Vision Center is located at 1065 E. Main Street. Email [email protected], visit facebook.com/DBSA.Ventura or call 746-3106 for more information.

Nov. 27: Treacy Villa Residential Care Facility is accepting new, unwrapped Toys for Tots this holiday season from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily at 3842 Loma Vista Road. Please bring them to the front reception desk. Nov. 27, thru Dec. 16. For more information, call 644.1292.

Nov.27: Wandering Ghosts a Talk and Tour 7p.m. to 9 p.m. Featuring Richard Senate, author, and ghost expert. $5 . The Bank of Books in Downtown Ventura.

Many ghosts haunt homes and buildings. Ventura has many of them in her downtown. But, some ghosts wander the streets and parks. These wandering ghosts are the subject of this discussion. An interesting look at the supernatural side of Ventura as the holidays approach.

Mr. Senate will be signing his books Nov.27, 28, & 29; December 4,5,6,11,12, & 13.

Nov.28: Come celebrate the spirit of holidays past at the historic Dudley House. The 22nd year of this annual fundraiser for the museum features quality crafts, home décor, antiques and collectibles and a tearoom with refreshments, silent auction and bargain items. Hours are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. with a flea market added on Sundays. On Saturday, from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m., well-known local history expert and tour guide, Glenda Jackson, will talk about and sign her Ventura pictorial history books. The Dudley House is located on the corner of Loma Vista and Ashwood, admission is free. Call 642-3345 for information.

Nov. 28: Audubon New Trip – Ocean Beach County Park, Lompoc 9:30 a.m. Alexis Frangis 217-4833. Join a day trip to a beautiful coastal location in northern Santa Barbara County. Ocean Beach, reminiscent of Bolsa Chica, sits in pristine isolation just steps from some of our most engaging and beautiful shoreline. Snowy Plovers nest on the beaches. Bring food, water and a lunch.

Dec. 2, 10: Spice-Topia will be hosting cooking classes by Chef Amy Tyrrell of Morsels as You Wish. Each class fee is $35 and includes a complete recipe book and sampling of all dishes on that evening’s menu. Dec 2: Holiday Cookies and Bars features toasted almond and cranberry cookies plus lots of other good stuff. Dec 10: Morning After Brunches features Korean Chicken and Waffles plus lots of other good stuff. 6:30pm to 8:30pm, 576 E. Main St. 628.3267 spice-topia.com

Dec.3, 4, 5: “Clara Cries Nuts”: Aloft Dance Theater brings back this local holiday favorite with its humorous and inspiring message about the holidays. Nocturnal Episode #8 features lead character Clara, former American Ballet Theater ballerina, Colleen O’Callighan, as she twists her way through a post-holiday, stress induced, dream state. Written and directed by Pamela Pilkenton with Associate Director and Choreographer Cathy Jean Butter, ‘Clara Cries Nuts’ searches for the true meaning of the holidays. 8 p.m. December 3, 4, 5. NAMBA Performing Arts Space, 47 S. Oak Street, Ventura. $25. Tickets: http://claracriesnuts.brownpapertickets.com Information: 628-9250.

Dec.4: The Ventura Poinsettia Dance Club and The Ventura Jazz Orchestra invites you to a Holiday Big Band Dance/Concert from 8 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. featuring headliner vocalist Donna Greene with special guest vocalist Julija Zonic. Special appearance by vocalist/pianist Smitty West. Nineteen musicians at their best performing the great American song book. Along with Christmas music you can dance to.

Poinsettia Pavilion Ball Room, 3451 Foothill Road. $15 admission at the door. Free refreshments and parking.

Dec.5: Day of Authors from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. located at the Bank of Books, 748 East Main Street.

11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Marie-Ange Faugerolas Angels: The Definitive Guide to angels from Around the World. 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. Mandy Jackson-Beverly: A Secret Muse. 3 p.m. to 5p.m. Edna Esfeld Brainwashed: Fighting for the Enemy: An American Soldier’s WWII Memoir as a Hitler Youth and German Soldier. 5p.m. to 7 p.m. Marion Scherer Hello, 31.

Dec.5: The local chapter of Portuguese Fraternal Society of America (PFSA Council #128) will hold its annual Christmas Luncheon on Saturday. This holiday luncheon is open to any person of Portuguese descent or interested in the Portuguese culture. It will be held at the Four Points Sheraton, Windjammer Room. The cost for the luncheon is $30 per adult and $20 for children (including tax & gratuity). The festivities will begin at 12 p.m. Anyone interested in attending should make a reservation and meal request with Cora Corella at 483-6285 or Yvonne Westervelt at 483-4168.

Dec.6: “Elvis” will entertain at the Christmas Charity Ball hosted by the Ventura Elks Lodge #1430, 2126 Knoll Dr. The event is open to the public with cocktails at 5 p.m., dinner 6 p.m. and entertainment beginning at 7 p.m. Music will be by Raymond Michael (aka Elvis) with Master of ceremonies Jim Mc Croay. The menu is chicken cordon bleu, mash red potatoes and gravy, green salad and New York Cheesecake. Dinner will be served by Lions Boys and Girls Club of Ventura. An opportunity drawing will be held by Malcolm Cornett for Pre-paid ticket at $15 are available, prepay and reserve your table of 10 by contacting June 647-5338, Loretta 643 1512, January 642-1518. Additional information is available calling the Ventura Elks #1430 office at 639-0303.

Dec. 7, 8, 15, 16: CMH Auxiliary Gift Shop will have 2 final sales this year. December 7th and 8th, show will be held in the Lobby 7a.m. to 5 p.m. Wonderful gifts and stocking stuffers will be available.

December 15,16, “Accessory Mania” in Lobby as well. Come and complete your holiday shopping lists.

Please keep in mind that the Auxiliary continues to seek new volunteers. Openings in many of the services are available. For information please call CMH Auxiliary front desk 652-5043, visit web site, or stop by and pick up an application.

Dec.11&12: Friday Dec. 11, at 8:00 pm, Sat. Dec. 12, at 2:00 pm Gold Coast Concert Chorus presents Mystery and Wonder a celebration of the holiday season with ancient carols reimagined and new songs of rejoicing from around the world, as well as holiday favorites and beautiful songs of the season.St. John’s Lutheran Church – 1500 North C St., Oxnard. Adults $15.00, Sr./Student $12.00, Child under 12 $5.00. 616-7269 or [email protected].

Vol. 9, No. 4 – November 25 – December 8, 2015 – Professor Scamp

• The Ventura County Animal Services (VCAS) has received the largest donation in its history. The Hahn-Block Family Foundation visited the Camarillo Adoption Center on July 9, After seeing the necessary use of temporary caging for dogs due to over-crowding, and seeing the number of dogs in the “holding room,” they generously offered $100,000 towards a matching fund donation campaign. Animal Services plans to create a more suitable habitat environment for small dogs; removing cages and kennels altogether and creating more space to house the animals.

Ventura County Animal Services (VCAS) will use any additional funding on their new Pet Retention program. This program is designed to help keep pets with their owners by assisting with medical bills and pet deposits, rather than family pets being surrendered to Animal Services. Funds will also support spay/neuter funding for community members who cannot afford the procedure.

“We are extremely grateful to the Hahn-Block Foundation for choosing to invest in the future of displaced pets in our community and struggling pet owners. It is because of generous people and organizations like Hahn-Block that we are able to provide extended care to these pets. These funds will help in much needed areas to ensure our community remains no-kill”, said Tara Diller, Director of Ventura County Animal Services.

• Some questions that I needed answered by Dr. Jennifer Kelly, DVM veterinarian at Ohana Pet Hospital in Ventura

Don’t ever tell a cat how to relax ~ Savana

Q Savana hates getting her nails trimmed and always makes fuss. Any tips to help with this problem?

A She should definitely start trimming early because if cats get used to it at a young age they won’t mind it as much. Also the more frequently it’s done the less scared your friend will be. Most importantly, all humans should know their cats’ anatomy so they are cutting the nails properly. At the center of each toenail is something called the quick where the blood and nerve supply are. Cutting into the quick will cause pain and bleeding so that should absolutely be avoided. If it is done properly, your friend has nothing to worry about.

Q How do my buddies know when to take dogs or cats in for urgent care?

A If your pet’s behavior changes suddenly it’s always a good idea to bring them to the vet, however, there are some symptoms we typically look for which may indicate something serious or even life threatening. Labored breathing, pale gums, or a pet that is straining to urinate are all symptoms that require immediate medical attention. A lethargic pet who does not want to do anything is also cause for concern. Vomiting, diarrhea or bloody stools are other serious symptoms to be aware of. Also, if a pet has not eaten or had anything to drink for more than a day, this could be an indication of something serious and they may be at risk for dehydration. Remember, you know your pet and if something seems off to you, it’s always better to err on the side of caution and have them seen.

• Paw’s Corner
By Sam Mazzotta

Camping With Your Dog

Sam: We’ve been invited on a camping trip with several other families. We don’t have kids, but our dogs “Sarah” and “Jake” are like kids to us. Is it okay to bring them along? — Frank J.

Dear Frank: There are three questions you must ask in order to determine whether you can bring along Sarah and Jake: 1. Does the campsite allow pets? 2. Are the other families OK with you bringing pets? 3. Are Sarah and Jake well-socialized to children and to other pets? While many state and federal parks allow pets at campsites, others don’t. Some have specific restrictions, such as, pets are allowed at campsites but not in certain areas of the park where there’s an ecological risk. Check the campsite or park’s website for specific rules about pets. Also, check the park’s safety advisories: Are you camping in bear country, or are other hazards present? Second, since it’s your first time camping with this group, ask the other campers if they are comfortable with pets coming along. It’s up to you to make sure they are well-behaved and will swiftly obey your commands when off-leash. If everything checks out, then start planning. Make sure Sarah and Jake have their needs met — food, toys, leashes. Bring sweaters and booties just in case. Carry cleanup bags and a large trash bag for disposal at the campsite. At night they will need to be kept in the tent or in a portable kennel. Finally, make sure their heartworm and shots are up to date, and check them daily while camping for ticks, fleas, and burrs. Send your questions or tips to [email protected]. (c) 2015 King Features Synd., Inc.

• The Ventura County Board of Supervisors has approved new contracts for their animal control services in our local cities . The county has negotiated new contracts that they say more reflect the real cost of providing shelters and other animal services to the county cities . The county shelter is based at the Camarillo Airport with a small shelter In Simi valley . Ventura’s Amount has been slightly reduced from last year by about $3,000 while Oxnard’s has been increased over $600,000.

• It has been reported that pet ownership can have a beneficial effect on adolescents with type 1 diabetes, with younger children in particular having improved glycemic control after several months spent caring for a pet fish(or a dog I’m sure), according to research in The Diabetes Educator.

In a pilot program designed to test behavioral intervention in adolescents with type 1 diabetes, researchers found the structured care of a pet fish helped to improve HbA1c levels by providing activity-based cues to better perform diabetes self-care behaviors.

“Teenagers are one of the most difficult patient populations to treat, mainly because of the many psychosocial factors associated with that stage of life,” Olga Gupta, MD, an assistant professor of pediatrics and internal medicine at the University of Texas Southwestern, said in a press release. “We learned that instructing families to associate regular pet fish care with the child’s standard diabetes care significantly improved their HbA1c levels.”

Gupta, Louise Maranda, PhD, of the department of quantitative health science at the University of Massachusetts Medical School in Worchester, and colleagues analyzed data from 28 adolescents aged 10 to 17 years from a pediatric diabetes clinic with type 1 diabetes and an HbA1c greater than 8.5%. Within the cohort, 16 children were randomly assigned to care for a pet fish for 3 months; 12 children were instructed to proceed with their usual diabetes self-care routine. Researchers chose a fish to minimize the burden of cost and pet care placed on families who agreed to participate in the study.

Researchers gave participants in the pet care arm a fish bowl and equipment, a $5 gift card to purchase a fish (Betta splendens), instructions for caring for a fish and recommendations to set up their fish bowl in their rooms if possible. Researchers instructed participants in the pet care arm to check their blood glucose readings when feeding the fish twice daily — after waking and before bedtime. Researchers instructed participants to review their glucose logs with their caregiver weekly while changing one-quarter of the water in the fish bowl.

Researchers found that participants in the pet care group decreased their HbA1c level by 0.5% after 3 months compared with participants in the control group who saw a 0.8% increase in HbA1c (P = .04). Participants aged 10 to 13 years responded better, with a 1.5% HbA1c reduction compared with a 0.6% reduction among participants aged 14 to 17 years (P = .04).

“Associating diabetes self-care tasks with routine, consistent daily activities may be another tool in the diabetes educator toolbox that can be used to enhance compliance and ultimately improve glycemic control,” the researchers wrote. “The identification of this successful behavioral intervention justifies conducting ongoing studies to validate these findings in a larger cohort for a longer follow-up period, pinpointing the mechanisms leading to the improvement, using different household pets and monitoring the changes in health service utilization.” – by Regina Schaffer

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